Lister defense to present case in 2008 Easton murder trial

COURT ROUNDUP

Defense attorneys for accused murderer Michael W. Lister Sr. will begin presenting their case to jurors today now that the prosecution has rested its case.

Lister, 42, of Easton is charged with shooting his ex-girlfriend to death outside his West Ward home after she dropped their child off for a custody visit.

The state's case ended Wednesday with testimony from a medical examiner. Assistant District Attorney Kelly Lewis is seeking a first-degree murder conviction, which would promise life in prison.

On Oct. 26, 2008, Lister shot Tracie Raisner six times outside his 327 N. 10th St. home. Their then 12-year-old son, Anthony Lister, was the first person to reach her body, and police said they found him kneeling and crying.

Defense lawyers Mark Minotti and Dwight Danser say Lister only fired on Raisner, 35, of Easton after she reached as though she might be grabbing a gun.

They are asking the jury to find Lister guilty of voluntary manslaughter, which is punishable by up to 20 years in jail, or third-degree murder, which can bring a sentence of up to 40 years.